Having started at Workman in November 2015 via the Workman Graduate Scheme, Craig Dodds was recently promoted to the role of Senior Associate.

What three words describe Workman?

Collaborative, welcoming, and progressive.

Having joined Workman as part of its renowned Graduate Scheme, why do you think this approach is important for the industry as a whole, and why would you recommend it to others?

Without a doubt, the single most important thing that the Workman Graduate Scheme gives you from a very early stage is responsibility. There is an exceptional level of support behind you every day, but by being granted genuine responsibility you gain the freedom to develop in a very positive way.

We will all make mistakes occasionally, but learning from them is the key to progressing, not just as individuals, but as a whole firm and an industry.

The Workman Graduate Scheme allows talented individuals to show and adapt their skillsets in a structured and nurturing environment, and that is why I would recommend it to anyone thinking of a career in Property Management.

How are you putting your skills to their best use at Workman?

I think the reality of being a Property Manager means that you have to be a ‘people person’ and a good communicator as you interact with such a broad spectrum of people at all levels – from being involved with projects of over a million pounds on city centre office space, to managing tertiary industrial property, there is never a dull day.

Tell us about your role, and why this is important to the firm and its clients?

I try to provide a strong connection between the Workman team and our clients. The most important part of my role is building and promoting trust in the firm, both internally and externally.

Our clients and stakeholders need to be given the correct advice and meaningful insight, and the part of my role that I find most satisfying is forming the relationships that allow Workman to be a reliable partner to those we work alongside.

You’ve recently been promoted to Senior Associate how do you hope to further develop your role in the coming months and years?

As a line manager to professional staff in our Glasgow office, I am keen to develop the softer skills that really define the difference between being a ‘manager’ and a ‘leader.’

Property is a constantly evolving landscape and by striving to adapt to that change, and attempting to lead by example as an individual, I hope that there will be a benefit to the wider team’s progress on a holistic level.

What has been your standout moment at Workman so far?

There are a lot of highlights I could mention, but I think passing the APC is a real standout for anyone in the industry.

What change would you make to the wider property sector? And why?

I think the sustainability agenda needs to be improve massively if we are to see real change in how we engage with the environment. The implementation of small changes would collectively have a huge impact on our climate, general wellbeing and promote greater equality.

What first led you into the property industry?

I worked as a labourer for a roofing company during summer breaks when I was doing my undergraduate degree (in History) and that gave me my first proper insight into working in the built environment.

Subsequently, I did a property-related MSc and was able to merge the analytical skills I had gained during my undergrad with the more practical skills I had learned on construction sites, which ultimately lead me to Property Management.

What are your spare time pursuits and how do they feed into your role at Workman?

During the pandemic, when all our social lives ground to a halt, I trained to run an ultramarathon and continue to enjoy running long distances. Training for this type of event helps build resilience which can definitely transfer to the workplace, but ultimately it allows me to switch off for a few hours at a time, which is equally important.

What is your favourite building worldwide, and why?

It’s more of a structure than a building, but the Tyne Bridge that spans the river between Newcastle and Gateshead. As a Geordie that lives in Scotland, seeing it always reminds me that the North East is actually the best place on earth!

What three dinner party guests would you choose and why?

• Eddie Howe – to discuss the revolution he’s currently leading at Newcastle United.
• Michelle Obama – surely one of the most interesting people in the world, with a mountain of stories to tell.
• Sir Michael Palin – to discuss his travels around the globe and listen to his stories about the many different landscapes and cultures he has experienced.